What devalues properties in 2026?

05 February, 2026

What Devalues a Property in 2026? What Buyers Really Notice

Right now, buyers are more careful than ever. Most people do their homework before they book a viewing, so small issues can quickly turn into lower offers.

At Get An Offer, we regularly speak to sellers who are surprised by what puts buyers off. Below are the most common reasons properties lose value this year, and why buyers care so much about them.

Visible Neglect and First Impressions

Buyers usually make their mind up very quickly.

Peeling paint, damp patches, broken fencing or an untidy garden can all cause concern. Even if the issues are minor, they often make buyers worry there could be bigger problems hiding underneath.

Rather than taking the risk, many buyers will simply offer less.

Legal Issues and Paperwork Problems

Paperwork problems can cause serious delays.

Missing planning permission, lack of building regulations, unclear boundaries or disputes with neighbours all make buyers nervous. Mortgage lenders are stricter, and anything that slows things down can lead to offers being reduced or withdrawn.

If the legal side is not clear, buyers often walk away to avoid future stress.

Poor Energy Efficiency

Energy costs still matter a lot to buyers.

Homes with low EPC ratings are often seen as expensive to live in. Buyers tend to factor in the cost of insulation, new windows or a replacement boiler before they make an offer.

This often leads to lower offers, even when the upgrades are fairly straightforward.

Layouts That Do Not Suit Modern Living

How a home feels inside is just as important as size.

Dark rooms, limited storage or awkward layouts can put buyers off. With more people working from home, flexible space is a big plus.

Even a well looked after property can lose value if it does not feel practical for everyday life.

Pricing Too High From the Start

Overpricing is one of the fastest ways to lose value.

In 2026, buyers know the market. If a property sits unsold for too long, people start to assume something is wrong with it.

Price reductions often follow, and the final sale price can end up lower than if the property had been priced sensibly to begin with.

Short Lease Lengths

Short leases are still a big issue.

Flats with less than 80 years left on the lease often attract fewer buyers. Lease extensions can be costly and complicated, and some lenders are unwilling to lend at all.

This limits demand and usually pushes offers down.

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If your property is affected by one or more of these points, it does not mean you cannot sell.

At Get An Offer, we help homeowners sell quickly and realistically, even when many estate agents struggle. Knowing what affects value can help you make better choices and avoid long delays.

If you want an honest view of what your property could be worth in 2026, the Get An Offer team is here to help.